A method of using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to guide a target includes receiving a location signal from one or more sensors of the UAV, receiving an input signal from a user device for guiding the target that defines at least one of a travel route, a permissible region, or an impermissible region, comparing the location signal to the input signal to determine whether the target is deviating from the travel route, exiting the permissible region, or entering the impermissible region, and initiating, via the UAV or an attachment mechanism coupled between the UAV and the target, a deterrent mechanism in response to determining that the target is deviating from the travel route, exiting the permissible region, or entering the impermissible region.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to guide a target, comprising: receiving a location signal from one or more sensors of the UAV; receiving an input signal from a user device for guiding the target, the input signal defining at least one of a travel route, a permissible region, or an impermissible region; comparing the location signal to the input signal to determine whether the target is deviating from the travel route, exiting the permissible region, or entering the impermissible region; and initiating, via the UAV or an attachment mechanism coupled between the UAV and the target, a deterrent mechanism in response to determining that the target is deviating from the travel route, exiting the permissible region, or entering the impermissible region.
This invention relates to using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to monitor and guide a target, such as an animal or object, to ensure it follows a designated path or stays within a defined area. The system addresses the problem of controlling or redirecting targets that may stray from intended routes or restricted zones, which is particularly useful in applications like wildlife management, livestock tracking, or object retrieval. The UAV is equipped with sensors to detect the target's location and receives input signals from a user device, which may specify a travel route, permissible regions, or impermissible regions. The system continuously compares the target's location against these predefined parameters. If the target deviates from the route, exits a permissible area, or enters an impermissible zone, the UAV or an attachment mechanism between the UAV and the target activates a deterrent mechanism. This deterrent could include auditory, visual, or physical signals to guide the target back to the correct path or area. The system ensures compliance with predefined boundaries without requiring constant manual intervention, improving efficiency and safety in tracking and guiding operations.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein input signal defines the at least one of the travel route, the permissible region, or the impermissible region by defining at least one of a boundary, a geographic radius, a geographic radial center, global coordinates, or local coordinates.
This invention relates to systems for defining and managing travel routes, permissible regions, and impermissible regions for autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles. The problem addressed is the need for precise and flexible methods to specify geographic boundaries and constraints for vehicle navigation, ensuring safe and efficient operation within defined areas. The method involves processing an input signal that defines at least one of a travel route, a permissible region, or an impermissible region. The input signal specifies these areas using various geographic parameters, including boundaries, geographic radii, radial centers, global coordinates (e.g., latitude and longitude), or local coordinates (e.g., relative to a reference point). This allows for dynamic and adaptable region definitions, accommodating different use cases such as restricted zones, waypoints, or exclusion areas. The method ensures that the vehicle's navigation system can interpret and enforce these constraints accurately, preventing unauthorized entry into impermissible regions or deviations from permissible routes. By supporting multiple coordinate systems and boundary definitions, the system provides flexibility in defining regions for various applications, including logistics, transportation, and safety compliance. The approach enhances situational awareness and operational control for autonomous vehicles, improving safety and efficiency in navigation.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the user device comprises a user interface and the at least one of the travel route, the permissible region, or the impermissible region is defined by user setting geographic coordinates of routes or regions by entering or clicking points on the user interface, drawing routes or regions on the user interface, or communicating with the user interface through a tactile or audio command.
This invention relates to a method for defining travel routes or permissible/impermissible regions for a user device, such as a navigation or tracking system. The problem addressed is the need for flexible and intuitive ways to set geographic boundaries or paths for navigation, tracking, or access control purposes. The method involves a user device with a user interface that allows users to define geographic coordinates for travel routes or regions. Users can set these boundaries by entering coordinates manually, clicking or tapping points on a map displayed on the interface, drawing routes or regions directly on the interface, or using tactile or audio commands to interact with the interface. The defined routes or regions can then be used to guide navigation, restrict movement, or trigger alerts within the system. The invention enables dynamic and customizable geographic definitions, improving usability for applications like route planning, geofencing, or restricted area management. The user interface supports multiple input methods, ensuring accessibility and ease of use across different user preferences and environments. The method ensures that the defined routes or regions are accurately captured and applied within the system, enhancing the reliability of navigation or tracking functions.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the target is determined to be deviating from the travel route, exiting the permissible region, or entering the impermissible region based on a distance, a direction, or a speed of the target detected by the one or more sensors of the UAV.
A system and method for monitoring and managing the movement of a target, such as a person or object, using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with sensors. The UAV detects the target's position, speed, and direction to determine whether the target is deviating from a predefined travel route, exiting a permissible region, or entering an impermissible region. The UAV uses sensor data to calculate the target's distance from the intended path, its movement direction relative to the permissible boundaries, and its speed to assess compliance with movement constraints. If the target violates these parameters, the system triggers an alert or intervention, such as adjusting the UAV's flight path or notifying an operator. The method ensures real-time tracking and enforcement of movement restrictions, improving safety and security in monitored areas. The UAV may also adjust its position or sensor focus to maintain accurate tracking of the target. This approach is useful in applications like perimeter security, wildlife monitoring, or search-and-rescue operations where precise tracking and boundary enforcement are critical.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the target is determined to be deviating from the travel route in response to determining that the target is about to change a travel direction to deviate from the travel route, or in response to determining that the target is already away from the travel route over a threshold distance.
This invention relates to systems for detecting and responding to deviations from a predefined travel route, such as in autonomous vehicle navigation or object tracking. The problem addressed is ensuring accurate and timely detection of when a moving target, such as a vehicle or pedestrian, deviates from an intended path, whether due to an impending direction change or an existing deviation beyond a set threshold. The method involves monitoring the target's movement to predict or confirm deviations from the travel route. If the system determines that the target is about to change direction in a way that would cause it to leave the travel route, it identifies this as a deviation. Alternatively, if the target has already moved away from the route by more than a predefined distance, the system also flags this as a deviation. This allows for proactive or reactive adjustments, such as altering the target's path, issuing alerts, or updating tracking systems. The approach ensures reliable detection of deviations, whether they are imminent or already occurring, by combining predictive analysis with threshold-based monitoring. This is particularly useful in applications requiring precise navigation or safety, such as autonomous driving, drone navigation, or surveillance systems. The method enhances situational awareness and response capabilities by dynamically assessing movement patterns against the intended route.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the target is determined to be exiting the permissible region or entering the impermissible region in response to determining that the target is about to approach a boundary of the permissible region or the impermissible region within a threshold distance, or in response to determining that the target has passed the boundary of the permissible region or the impermissible region over a threshold distance.
This invention relates to systems for monitoring and controlling the movement of a target, such as a vehicle or object, within defined spatial regions. The problem addressed is ensuring that the target remains within permissible areas while avoiding impermissible regions, such as restricted zones or hazardous areas. The method involves detecting when the target is about to approach or has already crossed a boundary between these regions. Specifically, the target is determined to be exiting a permissible region or entering an impermissible region if it comes within a predefined threshold distance of the boundary or if it has already crossed the boundary by a threshold distance. This allows for proactive intervention, such as issuing alerts or triggering automated control measures, to prevent unauthorized or unsafe movement. The system may use sensors, tracking devices, or other monitoring technologies to continuously assess the target's position relative to the boundaries. The method ensures compliance with spatial constraints, enhancing safety and operational efficiency in applications like autonomous navigation, surveillance, or access control.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the deterrent mechanism includes providing an alert signal to the user device, the alert signal including at least one of an audio signal, a visual signal, or a tactile signal.
A method for enhancing user awareness of potential security threats involves a deterrent mechanism that provides an alert signal to a user device. The alert signal is designed to notify the user of a detected threat or suspicious activity, ensuring timely awareness and response. The alert signal can be delivered in multiple forms, including an audio signal, such as a sound or voice notification, a visual signal, such as a flashing light or on-screen message, or a tactile signal, such as a vibration or haptic feedback. This multi-modal approach ensures that the user is alerted effectively, regardless of their current environment or sensory capabilities. The method may be part of a broader security system that monitors for threats and triggers the alert signal when a potential risk is identified. The deterrent mechanism aims to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, or other security compromises by ensuring the user is promptly notified of any suspicious activity. The alert signal can be customized based on the severity of the threat, allowing for different levels of urgency in the notification. This method enhances security by leveraging multiple sensory cues to ensure the user is aware of potential risks in real-time.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the deterrent mechanism includes providing an attractor by the UAV to guide the target.
A system and method for deterring unwanted targets, such as drones or other airborne objects, using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The system addresses the problem of unauthorized or hostile aerial intrusions by employing a UAV equipped with a deterrent mechanism designed to intercept and neutralize the target. The deterrent mechanism includes an attractor, which is deployed by the UAV to lure or guide the target into a controlled environment where it can be safely intercepted or disabled. The attractor may use visual, auditory, or electromagnetic signals to manipulate the target's navigation systems or sensors, causing it to deviate from its intended path. The UAV may also include additional deterrent features, such as physical barriers, electronic jamming, or kinetic interceptors, to further ensure the target is neutralized. The system is particularly useful in securing restricted airspace, protecting critical infrastructure, or defending against malicious drone activity. The method involves deploying the UAV, activating the attractor, and monitoring the target's response to ensure effective deterrence. The system may also incorporate real-time tracking and adaptive control to adjust the deterrent strategy based on the target's behavior.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the attractor includes at least one of an edible treat, a selected scent, or a real-time or pre-recorded sound, image, or video to attract the target.
This invention relates to systems and methods for attracting and engaging a target, such as an animal or human, using sensory stimuli. The method involves deploying an attractor device that emits at least one of an edible treat, a selected scent, or a real-time or pre-recorded sound, image, or video to lure the target. The attractor may be integrated into a wearable device, a stationary unit, or a mobile platform, depending on the application. The system can be used for training, monitoring, or interaction purposes, where the attractor is activated based on predefined conditions or user input. The attractor may also include multiple stimuli to enhance effectiveness, such as combining a scent with a visual or auditory cue. The method ensures that the target is drawn to the attractor, facilitating tasks like behavior modification, data collection, or assisted navigation. The system may further include sensors to detect the target's presence or response, allowing for adaptive adjustments to the attractor's output. The invention is particularly useful in applications where passive or automated engagement is required, such as wildlife monitoring, pet training, or human-assisted navigation for individuals with disabilities.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the deterrent mechanism includes controlling flight of the UAV to control movement of the target.
A method for deterring unauthorized drones (UAVs) involves a system that detects and tracks a target UAV, then deploys a deterrent mechanism to control the UAV's flight and restrict its movement. The deterrent mechanism may include physical or electronic means to disrupt the UAV's operation, such as jamming signals, spoofing, or mechanical interference. The system monitors the UAV's position and adjusts the deterrent in real-time to ensure the UAV remains within a designated area or is guided to a safe landing. The method may also involve analyzing the UAV's behavior to determine the most effective deterrent strategy. The system can be integrated with surveillance networks to enhance detection and response capabilities. The approach ensures that unauthorized UAVs do not pose a threat to restricted airspace or sensitive locations.
11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the deterrent mechanism includes providing sufficient forces by the attachment mechanism to control movement of the target, wherein the attachment mechanism is extendible or retractable when the UAV is in flight.
A system and method for controlling the movement of a target using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) involves a deterrent mechanism that applies sufficient force to restrict or guide the target's motion. The attachment mechanism, which connects the UAV to the target, is designed to be extendible or retractable during flight, allowing dynamic adjustment of the force applied. This mechanism enables precise control over the target's movement, whether to restrain it or direct it along a desired path. The UAV's ability to extend or retract the attachment mechanism in real-time ensures adaptability to varying conditions, such as changes in the target's resistance or environmental factors. The system addresses challenges in remote target manipulation, particularly in scenarios where physical intervention is required without direct human contact. By integrating extendible or retractable attachment mechanisms, the UAV can effectively manage the target's movement while maintaining operational flexibility. This approach enhances safety and efficiency in applications like search and rescue, wildlife management, or hazardous material handling, where controlled interaction with the target is critical.
12. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: recognizing the target based on an identifier coupled to and uniquely identifying the target, wherein the identifier includes a visual pattern, a symbol, or a combination of numbers or letters for locating the target.
A method for recognizing a target object in a system involves identifying the target based on a unique identifier coupled to it. The identifier may include a visual pattern, a symbol, or a combination of alphanumeric characters. This identifier is used to locate and distinguish the target from other objects. The method may also involve capturing an image of the target, processing the image to detect the identifier, and using the detected identifier to determine the target's position or orientation. The identifier can be a barcode, QR code, alphanumeric label, or other machine-readable marking. The system may further include a sensor or imaging device to capture data from the target, and a processing unit to analyze the identifier and extract relevant information. This method is useful in applications such as automated tracking, inventory management, or robotic navigation, where precise identification of objects is required. The identifier ensures accurate and reliable recognition of the target, even in environments with multiple similar objects. The method may also include error-checking mechanisms to verify the integrity of the identifier and ensure correct target recognition.
13. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more sensors of the UAV comprise vision sensors, range sensors, or location sensors.
A method for operating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) involves using one or more sensors to gather data for navigation, obstacle detection, or positioning. The sensors may include vision sensors, such as cameras or image sensors, to capture visual information about the environment. Range sensors, such as LiDAR or ultrasonic sensors, measure distances to objects for collision avoidance or mapping. Location sensors, such as GPS or inertial measurement units (IMUs), provide positional data to track the UAV's location and movement. The sensor data is processed to enable autonomous flight, obstacle avoidance, or precise positioning. The method may also involve integrating multiple sensor types to improve accuracy and reliability in varying conditions. This approach enhances the UAV's ability to navigate complex environments, avoid obstacles, and maintain stable flight. The system may be used in applications like surveillance, delivery, or inspection, where accurate sensing and navigation are critical.
14. An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), comprising: one or more propulsion mechanisms configured to permit flight of the UAV; one or more sensors configured to generate a location signal; a communication unit configured to receive an input signal from a user device for guiding the target, the input signal defining at least one of a travel route, a permissible region, or an impermissible region; and one or more processors, individually or collectively, configured to: compare the location signal received from the one or more sensors to the input signal received from the communication unit to determine whether the target is deviating from the travel route, exiting the permissible region, or entering the impermissible region; and initiate, via the UAV or an attachment mechanism coupled between the UAV and the target, a deterrent mechanism in response to determining that the target is deviating from the travel route, exiting the permissible region, or entering the impermissible region.
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is designed to monitor and control the movement of a target, such as an animal or object, within predefined boundaries. The UAV includes propulsion mechanisms for flight, sensors to generate location signals, and a communication unit to receive input signals from a user device. These input signals define a travel route, permissible regions, or impermissible regions for the target. The UAV's processors compare the target's location signal to the input signal to detect deviations from the travel route, exits from permissible regions, or entries into impermissible regions. If a deviation is detected, the UAV or an attachment mechanism between the UAV and the target activates a deterrent mechanism to correct the target's path. This system ensures the target remains within designated areas, preventing unauthorized movement or entry into restricted zones. The UAV can be used for applications such as animal tracking, perimeter security, or object containment, providing automated monitoring and intervention to maintain compliance with predefined movement constraints.
15. The UAV of claim 14 , wherein input signal defined the at least one of the travel route, the permissible region, or the impermissible region by defining at least one of a boundary, a geographic radius, a geographic radial center, global coordinates, or local coordinates.
This invention relates to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and addresses the challenge of defining and enforcing operational boundaries for autonomous flight. The system enables a UAV to receive an input signal that specifies at least one of a travel route, a permissible region, or an impermissible region for flight. The input signal defines these areas using various geographic parameters, including boundaries, geographic radii, radial centers, global coordinates (e.g., GPS), or local coordinates relative to a reference point. This allows precise control over where the UAV can operate, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, no-fly zones, or mission-specific constraints. The UAV processes this input to autonomously navigate within permissible areas while avoiding restricted zones, enhancing operational safety and flexibility. The system may also integrate with external sources, such as air traffic control or geofencing databases, to dynamically update flight restrictions. This approach improves UAV autonomy by enabling adaptive, rule-based navigation without manual intervention.
16. The UAV of claim 14 , wherein the target is determined to be deviating from the travel route, exiting the permissible region, or entering the impermissible region based on a distance, a direction, or a speed of the target detected by the one or more sensors of the UAV.
This invention relates to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with sensors for monitoring and tracking targets, such as other UAVs or objects, to ensure they adhere to predefined travel routes and permissible regions. The system addresses the problem of detecting deviations from authorized paths or unauthorized entry into restricted areas, which is critical for safety, security, and regulatory compliance in UAV operations. The UAV includes one or more sensors, such as cameras, radar, or lidar, to detect and track targets in its operational environment. The system determines whether a target is deviating from its intended travel route, exiting a permissible region, or entering an impermissible region by analyzing the target's distance, direction, or speed relative to predefined boundaries. If a deviation or violation is detected, the UAV can trigger alerts, adjust its own flight path, or transmit data to a control system for further action. The sensors continuously monitor the target's movement, allowing real-time assessment of compliance with spatial constraints. This capability enhances situational awareness and enables automated or semi-automated responses to potential breaches, improving operational safety and efficiency in UAV applications.
17. The UAV of claim 14 , wherein the deterrent mechanism includes providing an attractor by the UAV to guide the target.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly used for surveillance, monitoring, and security applications. A key challenge is effectively deterring or guiding unwanted targets, such as unauthorized drones or wildlife, without causing harm. Existing solutions often rely on physical barriers or aggressive countermeasures, which may be impractical or unsafe. This invention addresses the problem by incorporating a deterrent mechanism into a UAV that includes an attractor to guide the target. The UAV is equipped with sensors to detect and track the target, such as an intruding drone or an animal. The attractor may emit visual, auditory, or electromagnetic signals designed to lure the target away from restricted areas or toward a designated location. The attractor can be dynamically adjusted based on the target's behavior, ensuring effective guidance without direct physical intervention. The UAV may also include additional deterrent features, such as controlled light patterns, sound emissions, or decoy movements, to further influence the target's path. This approach minimizes the need for forceful measures while maintaining operational safety and efficiency. The system is particularly useful in environments where traditional deterrents are ineffective or where minimizing collateral impact is critical.
18. The UAV of claim 17 , wherein the attractor includes at least one of an edible treat, a selected scent, or a real-time or pre-recorded sound, image, or video to attract the target.
This invention relates to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed for wildlife monitoring or interaction, specifically addressing the challenge of safely and effectively attracting target animals for observation, tracking, or research. The UAV includes an attractor system configured to lure the target animal using stimuli such as edible treats, specific scents, or real-time or pre-recorded sounds, images, or videos. The attractor system may be integrated into the UAV's payload or deployed separately to minimize disturbance to the animal. The UAV may also include sensors for detecting the target's presence, such as cameras, thermal imaging, or motion sensors, and may adjust its position or attractor output based on the target's behavior. The system ensures minimal stress to the animal while enabling accurate data collection. The attractor can be customized to the species being monitored, ensuring higher success rates in attracting and observing wildlife in their natural habitats. This approach improves the efficiency and ethical standards of wildlife research and conservation efforts.
19. The UAV of claim 14 , wherein the deterrent mechanism includes controlling the one or more propulsion mechanisms of the UAV to control movement of the target, or providing sufficient forces by the attachment mechanism to control movement of the target, wherein the attachment mechanism is extendible or retractable when the UAV is in flight.
This invention relates to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with a deterrent mechanism designed to control the movement of a target, such as an intruder or unauthorized object. The UAV includes one or more propulsion mechanisms and an attachment mechanism that can be extended or retracted while the UAV is in flight. The deterrent mechanism operates by either manipulating the UAV's propulsion systems to exert forces on the target or using the attachment mechanism to physically engage and control the target's movement. The attachment mechanism is adjustable in length, allowing the UAV to dynamically adapt its approach based on the target's position and behavior. This system is particularly useful in security applications where autonomous intervention is required to deter or neutralize threats without direct human intervention. The UAV's ability to adjust its attachment mechanism in mid-flight enhances its effectiveness in varying operational scenarios, ensuring precise and controlled interaction with the target. The invention addresses the need for automated, non-lethal methods of deterrence in environments where human operators may not be immediately available.
20. The UAV of claim 14 , wherein the one or more sensors of the UAV comprise vision sensors, range sensors, or location sensors.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly used for surveillance, mapping, and environmental monitoring, but their effectiveness depends on accurate data collection. Traditional UAVs often lack versatile sensing capabilities, limiting their ability to adapt to different environments and tasks. To address this, a UAV is equipped with a modular sensor system that includes vision sensors, range sensors, or location sensors. Vision sensors, such as cameras or LiDAR, capture visual data for object detection, tracking, and environmental mapping. Range sensors, like ultrasonic or radar sensors, measure distances to obstacles or terrain, enabling precise navigation and collision avoidance. Location sensors, such as GPS or inertial measurement units (IMUs), provide real-time positioning data for accurate flight path tracking. The UAV's sensor suite is configurable, allowing operators to select the appropriate sensors based on mission requirements. This adaptability enhances the UAV's performance in diverse applications, including search and rescue, agricultural monitoring, and infrastructure inspection. The integration of multiple sensor types ensures comprehensive data collection, improving situational awareness and operational efficiency.
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August 3, 2020
February 15, 2022
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